23 Friendly & Adorable Dog Breeds To Have At Home

Adopting a dog is an important decision that needs to be taken carefully especially when you have kids at home. Your main focus is the safety of your younger one. Some people argue that dogs are not good for houses that have young children. But I have a different opinion.

I feel having pets from the beginning teaches the kids to be loving, caring and responsible. Learning these qualities in the early years will help them in the long run. But which dog to adopt? What are the best family dog breeds? Don’t you worry, I will answer all your questions.

But before knowing which dog breeds are the best for a family with kids, we must know what traits and characteristics to look for while adopting a dog. We know kids are very energetic, mischievous and unpredictable. One needs a lot of patience to deal with them. The dog must also possess some qualities so that he can get along with kids.

Characteristics of Best Family Dog Breeds

 

 

• The first and foremost quality is patience. Kids like to play with their dogs which might become a bit rough sometimes. An aggressive and impatient dog might get irritated very soon and can hurt your kid. So, you must look for dog breeds which are very patient and calm.

 

• The Second quality that I would look for, is sturdiness. A timid and feeble pet won’t go along with kids. They must be sturdy and resilient. Children don’t pay attention to their actions while playing and a weak dog won’t be able to stand such situations.

 

• Another essential quality is energy. High energy dog breeds are more suitable as family pets for their ability to match the energy levels of the children. A less energetic dog won’t like to be poked so often and will get irritated with constant hugs and kisses etc.

 

• Next is intelligence. Why an intelligent more apt as family pets? Let us understand it this way. A Family Dog is trained about how to behave with kids. This is very important to ensure your kid’s safety. Now, can you train a dull or foolish person? Very difficult, right? The same is the case with dogs. Intelligent dogs are easier to train which makes them the best family dogs.

 

• Last but not least is the friendly nature of dogs. It is of utmost importance for the dog to be amiable and friendly. An unsocial or hostile dog wouldn’t fit into the family. He won’t enjoy the companionship of the people around and might end up hurting someone.

 

Now that you know what traits are desirable for a family dog here is a list of dog breeds suitable for a family. You can choose according to your family structure and preferences.

 

Best Family Dog Breeds

 

 

1. Bichon Frise

 

 

Do you want a small fur-baby mischievously running around the house? Bichon Frise looks just like a kid’s toy with a furry white coat. This is the most cheerful and happy breed. They are also loving and enthusiastic. Your kids will get a friendly companion to make the mischiefs all day long.

2. Poodle

 

 

These dogs come in different sizes- the standard and miniature sizes. While the standard ones are smart and adventurous, the miniature ones are dedicated to one person. They might develop a habit of barking on strangers. You will need to train them from an early age to get friendly with outsiders. They thrive for attention and companionship. Hence, you must not leave them alone at home for long hours.

3. Beagle

 

 

This is one of the best family dog breeds. Due to their small to medium size, they are easy to carry around. They do well in small to large size houses. They are very smart, friendly, and energetic dogs. The most important trait is that they are very active and hence require a lot of exercise and play companions. You will need to give attention to them and take them out to play or for a walk. If your kid is very energetic, you must choose a beagle as his pet.

4. Bulldogs

 

 

This is another small-sized dog that qualifies for the best family dog breeds. Due to their small size, they do well in both large and small houses. They are people-oriented and prefer companionship. As they are also very dependable and predictable, your kids will be safe around them.

5. Pugs

 

 

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that pugs are the most harmless breed of dogs. These small, friendly creatures love to play around. They enjoy the attention of both adults and kids. They also like the companionship of other animals. No matter how small they are, they are very intelligent beings which makes it easier to train them. You would love to own this small playful animal.

 

6. Labrador Retriever

 

 

They are famous as the best family dog breed and for all the right reasons. They are very friendly and get along with new members and visitors easily. In addition to that, they are highly reliable and patient with kids. Playful and very protective of their family, these dogs are very active, and their favorite sport is to swim. Labradors are also extremely intelligent, making it easier to train them. Also, you need to comb them only once in a week to keep them clean and healthy.

7. Golden Retriever

 

 

This large breed is the most popular family dog in the U.S. They are smart, confident and very patient with children. Their tolerant nature makes them one of the best family dog breeds. Also, they are very active and love to play retrieving games like frisbee and fetch. They are also easy to train which is why the best match for kids. If your kid is rough and difficult to handle sometimes, a golden retriever would be the best choice.

 

8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

 

 

They were originally bred as companion dogs. The best quality of these dogs is that they get along equally with adults and kids. They love to be a part of the family and are incredibly loyal and gentle with children. This breed usually have medium energy and are quite patient too. They are also easy to train and take the sessions positively.

 

9. Boxer

 

 

This is the people’s breed and renowned for their love for children. They are very active and need plenty of exercise and playtime. It is better to be placed in an active family. Got a hyperactive kid? Opt for a boxer without any doubt, and will be relieved for some hours of the day.

10. Vizsla

 

 

Vizsla is the most confident, smart and obedient dog. He is very energetic and suitable for active families. He creates a great bond with family members. You will find him very affectionate, lively and intelligent. You will want to keep him with you as he will totally love your company. In fact, try not to leave him alone else he might develop some separation anxiety.

 

11. Newfoundland

 

 

He has been given the nickname of nature’s babysitter for his love for children. He is very kind and gentle, a perfect companion for your kid. Although this is a very large-sized breed but very sweet at the same time. They are also very protective and intelligent breed. If your child is quiet and reserved, you can opt for this dog who will be his constant companion.

 

12. The French Bulldog

 

 

These are cute little version of bulldogs, mixed-breed by toy bulldogs from England and ratters from France. They got their name from the country of origin. They usually come in two colors Brindle & fawn but sometimes pied can also be seen. If you want to have a bulldog but can’t afford or don’t have enough space, they are your must go. They are tiny and anxious for human contact. One thing to keep in mind is that they need humans. You can’t just leave them for hours alone. So be sure of that.

 

13. Airedale Terrier

 

 

The largest of all terrier breeds. They can be up to 23 inches and that’s quite big. Their fluffy hairy paws and their cuteness will leave you awestruck. An able sporting dog, he became an ideal working dog as well, proving his worth during World War I. Intelligent, outgoing, and confident, the Airedale possesses a wonderful playful streak that delights his owners.

Airedale stands among the world’s most versatile dog breeds and has distinguished himself as a hunter, athlete, and companion. Airedales are docile and patient with kids but won’t back down when protecting hearth and home. 

 

14. Chesapeake Bay Retriever 

 

 

This true American breed is thought to have originated from two puppies that were rescued from an English shipwreck in 1807 off the coast of Maryland, however, no complete and authentic record of his development exists. In the late 1800s, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was renowned for its ability to retrieve hundreds of waterfowl a day from the icy waters of the Chesapeake.

The Chesapeake coat, which is very dense and has an oily texture, allows the dog to easily deal with extreme weather conditions. This slightly wavy coat sheds profusely in the spring and requires daily brushing.

 

15. Toy Fox Terrier 

 

 

The Toy Fox Terrier was developed by breeding small Smooth Fox Terriers with several toy breeds including the Chihuahua and Manchester Terrier. Today, the Toy Fox Terrier is a well-balanced toy dog of athletic appearance displaying grace and agility in equal measure with strength and stamina. Truly a toy and a terrier, both have influenced his personality and character.

As a terrier, the Toy Fox Terrier possesses keen intelligence, courage, and animation. As a toy, he is diminutive and devoted with an endless abiding love for his master. 

 

16. Cocker Spaniel 

 

 

Spaniels in America can be traced back to 1620 and the landing of the Mayflower. In those early days, the Spaniels were divided into two varieties, land and water spaniels. Both varieties had the same bloodlines and could be found in the same litter. A weight limit of 28 pounds was the dividing line between the heavier field spaniels and the smaller, more compact cockers.

The name cocker came about because the dogs were being used for woodcock shooting. The Cocker Spaniel has been exhibited in the United States since the early 1800s.

 

17. American Hairless Terrier

 

 

Most people know about hairless cats. But many haven’t heard of the American hairless terrier. The AKC reports that American hairless terriers are the first hairless breed to originate in the United States. Interestingly enough, they had the same lineage as the rat terrier until the 1970s. In 1972, a rare mutation occurred in a litter of rat terriers. So a completely hairless puppy was born to a litter of otherwise “normal” rat terriers.

People love these dogs because of their playful personalities. Plus, even allergy sufferers can often own one without major issues.

 

18. American Foxhound 

 

 

Another of America’s native dog breeds, the American foxhound descends from a line of dogs that came to the American colonies from England in 1650. A man named Robert Brooke transported them, and eventually “established a breeding and working pack of black-and-tan foxhounds in America,” as the AKC explains.

These beautiful hounds actually formed the basis of several other strains of American hounds, too. George Washington himself owned some of these beautiful foxhounds. Washington even established some of the best early examples of the breed.

 

19. German Shepherds 

 

 

They happily serve as police dogs, seeing-eye dogs, medical assistance dogs, and therapy dogs, so it’s no surprise that consistent obedience comes standard with this breed. The German Shepherd Dog is one of America’s most popular dog breeds—for good reason. They’re intelligent and capable working dogs. Their devotion and courage are unmatched. And they’re amazingly versatile, excelling at most anything they’re trained to do.

The German Shepherd has a double coat, which is comprised of a thick undercoat and a dense, slightly wavy or straight outer coat. Its hair, usually tan and black, or red and black in color, is medium in length and is shed all year round. Other rarer color variations include all-Black, all-White, liver and blue.

The German Shepherd’s body is long — generally between 22 and 26 inches — in proportion to its height. This gives the dog strength, agility, elasticity, and long, elegant strides.

 

20. Maltese

 

 

One of the most ancient of the toy breeds, Maltese dogs were bred to be sweet and adoring of their owners. The Greeks even erected tombs for their Maltese dogs, and in Elizabethan times, they were called “The Comforter” because it was believed they could relieve pain and cure illness. Maltese dogs are also extremely hypoallergenic, with silky coats that don’t shed. And because of their size, these dogs are good for apartment living, too.

The tiny Maltese, “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” has been sitting in the lap of luxury since the Bible was a work in progress. Famous for their show-stopping, floor-length coat, Maltese are playful, charming, and adaptable toy companions.

 

21. Shih Tzu

 

 

This affectionate breed makes a great choice for families of all ages and most activity levels. Not requiring too much exercise, the easy-going Shih Tzu is a comfort-loving, trusting companion who loves being close to you at all times. Shih Tzu, weighing between 9 to 16 pounds, and standing between 8 and 11 inches, are surprisingly solid for dogs their size. The coat, which comes in many colors, is worth the time you will put into it—a few dogs are as beautiful as a well-groomed Shih Tzu.

 

22. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

 

 

The Cavalier is a truly sweet-natured, gentle breed making a wonderful addition to the family home, particularly with young children. Loves to play and get in amongst the action, but equally content snuggling up on your lap for cuddles. The Cavalier’s all-around beauty, regal grace, and even temper mark him as one of dogdom’s noblemen.

A toy spaniel no more than 13 inches high, the Cavalier draws you in with his face: The sweet, gentle, melting expression emanating from large, round eyes is a breed hallmark. Another is the silky, richly-colored coat that can be one of four distinct varieties.

 

23. Salukis 

 

 

The beauty of Salukis has been a thing of wonder for thousands of years. They’re slim and leggy, but very strong and perfectly balanced, like a great athlete or dancer. Males can stand between 23 and 28 inches at the shoulder; females can be much shorter. They come in many colors and patterns. Their large, oval-shaped eyes are warm and intelligent. Salukis are highly adaptable, able to live and work in any climate. They’re magnificent animals, but owning them comes with many special challenges.

 

Conclusion

 

All these breeds have one thing in common that is their compatibility with humans especially children. I hope the above list clears up all your confusion and you can now find the best pet for your family. You are about to enter a new expedition which is going to be filled with lots of adventures, and I promise, that little soul will make it all worthwhile.

 Personally love Golden Retriever, Pug and Newfoundland the most.

With all being said and seen, we bet that you would want to get a cute little puppy ASAP. Be it any breed, dogs love you no matter what. Make sure to choose the best one for you and your family. Since they are not just a toy but a very member of the family. It requires more effort and care to handle a dog than a human. Don’t rush into making a wrong decision and end up in trouble. We hope that your new journey with your adorable pooch runs smoothly and lovingly. 

Which breed of dogs do you like the most? 🙂

 

“When you bring your new family member home, click some beautiful pictures of your kid with him and get a handmade painting done. You can contact us, and we will help you choose the best portrait for your kid and the pet.”